Sydney Protest Inquiry: Limited Evidence of Violence by Protesters 2026

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) inquiry into the February protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Sydney has heard there is limited evidence of physical violence on the part of protesters. The watchdog opened its public hearings on Monday, examining police conduct at the rally, including the use of OC spray and allegations of officers boasting about gratuitous force.

The inquiry comes after widespread allegations of police brutality at the Sydney Town Hall protest, where viral footage showed officers punching multiple protesters and grabbing Muslim worshippers during sunset prayers. The LECC's opening address, delivered by counsel assisting Kirsten Edwards SC, set the stage for five weeks of private examinations.

What the Inquiry Has Found So Far

In her opening address, Edwards said the evidence is far from concluded but indicated that the protest was "largely peaceful in its early stages." She noted that while later conduct by protesters is described in evidence, there is currently limited proof that protesters engaged in physical violence.

The inquiry is also scrutinizing police use of force, particularly the use of OC spray and whether officers boasted about gratuitous force. These allegations have sparked community outrage and calls for accountability.

Key Issues Under Examination

The LECC is investigating several aspects of the police response to the rally. These include:

• The use of OC spray by police officers during the protest.
• Allegations that police boasted about using gratuitous force.
• The treatment of Muslim worshippers during sunset prayers.
• Whether police actions were proportionate and lawful.
• The overall conduct of the protest and police response.

These issues are central to determining whether police misconduct occurred and what reforms may be needed.

Police Commissioner's Bid for Private Hearings

The inquiry was delayed by almost a month after NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon made a last-minute bid to have the entire hearings held in private. The LECC agreed to hold a portion of the hearing in private, but the public opening address proceeded as scheduled.

This attempt to limit public scrutiny has raised concerns about transparency. The LECC's decision to hold some sessions privately suggests sensitive evidence may be involved, but the public portion ensures some accountability.

Community Impact and Broader Implications

The protest and subsequent inquiry have highlighted tensions between police and minority communities in Sydney. The footage of police grabbing worshippers during prayers has been particularly damaging to trust.

The inquiry's findings could lead to disciplinary action against officers and changes in police tactics. It also underscores the importance of independent oversight in policing.

What to Watch Next

The LECC will continue its private examinations over the next five weeks. The public may not hear all the evidence, but the final report will likely outline findings and recommendations.

Key questions remain: Will the inquiry identify specific instances of excessive force? Will it recommend policy changes? And how will the police respond to criticism?

For a related case, the Palestinian Australian suing NSW Police over alleged assault at Herzog protest shows how legal action is unfolding alongside the inquiry. Such lawsuits may pressure the police to reform.

Another incident under scrutiny is the leaked video of a Sydney police officer boasting about punching a protester, which has fueled public anger. This evidence could be pivotal in the LECC's assessment of officer conduct.

The inquiry also follows delays caused by the NSW Police Commissioner's bid to delay the anti-Herzog protest inquiry, raising questions about police cooperation. Meanwhile, comparisons are being drawn to France's suspension of stun grenades after a protester injury, highlighting global concerns over police tactics.

As the inquiry progresses, the Melbourne car attack on an anti-racism protester serves as a reminder of the risks protesters face. The LECC's findings will be closely watched by advocates and legal experts.

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